It was Apple’s big day today, but they were unexpectedly usurped by Google. Late yesterday, Google issued a press release announcing the new Nexus 6” phone, the 9” Nexus 9 tablet, and the release of the latest Android version…5.0, nicknamed “Lollipop.” Both new Nexus devices will come equipped with Lollipop. If you have an Android phone, see story #2 in the Mobile Computing section to see if and when you will get Lollipop. Obviously Google tried to steal Apple’s thunder, but they probably didn’t succeed.
Here is a quick summary of what Apple announced today:
- Apple Pay will be here on Monday and will be available in many stores
- The new iPad Air 2 is 18% thinner than the iPad air and faster
- The iPad Mini 3 is new but has few changes other than Touch ID
- A brand new 27” iMac with gorgeous Retina screen and faster processor
- A new Mac Mini that is faster and $100 cheaper
- The new Mac Operating System, “Yosemite” is available now
- iOS 8.1 update will be available on Monday
Apple Pay is going to be a big deal someday, but it will take awhile. Right now only iPhone 6 models will have it. I find that a little disappointing as I currently own an iPhone 5. The Apple Pay program allows you to pay a retailer without using your credit card. No one will see your card or be able to hijack it. Touch ID on the phone insures only you can use it to pay.
The new iPads add Touch ID and some additional speed. The Air 2 is also thinner. As for the new MAC, it is gorgeous with the 27” Retina Screen, but is $700 more than the current model. No Retina screen was announced for the 21” Mac. Actually I have always been very impressed with the MAC screens, but am looking forward to seeing the new one.
Our first two stories gives all the details of the new Apple and Google Android products. So…let’s get going. -JRC
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